It was one of her last moments with her mother, who was battling cancer.

“She said congratulations,” Obando said.

Perez died the next day, but not before she heard how much of a light her daughter is to the world.

“No matter what the day was like she always smiled for me,” said Crooks, at Wednesday’s ceremony.

Obando’s education meant the world to her mom.

“Very important. She’s very proud of me,”Obando said.

Obando plans to become a massage therapist, inspired by her mom. She gave her parents' massages often.

“She was always there for me. She’s a great mom in general. She’s very supportive,” Obando said.

The Salvation Army of Asheboro is grilling to raise funds for funeral costs for the family of Perez Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the 472 E. Dixie Drive location. They’re accepting donations through the Salvation Army, which can be reached at (336) 328-0891.